Best Seattle to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Seattle to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,251 mile move from Washington to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 40 Seattle to San Diego moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Seattle Moves & More), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $7,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Seattle compared to San Diego. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.
Best Seattle to San Diego Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | The Rock Movers | 9.49 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.46 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | People Movers | 9.16 | 9.54 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Seattle to San Diego
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,251 miles from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA will cost on average $2,845 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Seattle to San Diego move is roughly $6,845. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,912 | 300 ft³ | 6.37 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,845 | 450 ft³ | 6.32 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,704 | 750 ft³ | 6.27 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,845 | 1100 ft³ | 6.22 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,876 | 1600 ft³ | 6.17 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $11,020 | 1800 ft³ | 6.12 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Seattle guide.
Compare the 5 Best Seattle to San Diego Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Seattle Moves & More
4601 Shilshole Ave NW
Seattle, WA, 98107
About Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2962927 / 5796 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 31,000 (2023) |
The Rock Movers
7087 Camino Revueltos UNIT 306
San Diego, CA, 92111
About The Rock Movers
The Rock Movers is a San Diego County-based moving company offering professional and affordable moving services for local and long-distance relocations....
Services
- Local Residential
- Furniture Moving
- Full Packing Service
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3653432 / 1541470 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
2020 Camino De La Reina
San Diego, CA, 92108
About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill,...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3177184 / 1157114 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200,000 (2024) |
John Volken Academy Movers
921 Central Ave N
Kent, WA, 98032
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
People Movers
11808 NE 160th St
Bothell, WA, 98011
About People Movers
People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2895681 / 1597195 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2023) |
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Seattle vs. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be a mix of excitement and uncertainty. To ease this transition, we're offering a comparison to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings using what you already know. This is a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & San Diego, CA. Whether you're seeking a vibrant arts scene, quiet suburban life, or beachside living, finding a neighborhood that feels like home is key. Let's explore the similarities between these two beautiful cities.
| Seattle | San Diego | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Capitol Hill | Hillcrest | Vibrant LGBTQ+ community, artsy |
| Belltown | Little Italy | Bustling nightlife, trendy eateries |
| Ballard | North Park | Hip, craft beer scene |
| Queen Anne | La Jolla | Upscale, stunning ocean views |
| Fremont | South Park | Quirky, local arts scene |
| Greenwood | Normal Heights | Family-friendly, diverse eateries |
| West Seattle | Point Loma | Quiet, close-knit community |
| Columbia City | Golden Hill | Diverse, historic homes |
| Wallingford | Encinitas | Laid-back, surf culture |
| Pioneer Square | Gaslamp Quarter | Rich history, lively entertainment |
In exploring these neighborhoods, you'll find that Golden Hill's historic homes and diverse community echo Columbia City, while the laid-back, surf vibe of Encinitas is reminiscent of Wallingford's relaxed atmosphere. For those who love the vibrant LGBTQ+ community and artsy vibe of Capitol Hill, Hillcrest in San Diego offers a similar cultural richness with an array of local markets and events. The transition from Seattle's Queen Anne to San Diego's La Jolla means swapping city views for ocean vistas, where neighborhoods are dotted with upscale shops and oceanside dining like that at George's at the Cove. Migrating from the hip, craft beer scene of Ballard to North Park, you'll find a shared love for microbreweries and a similarly hip vibe in venues like North Park Beer Co. Whether you’re craving the historic charm and lively entertainment found in both Pioneer Square and the Gaslamp Quarter or seeking a quieter, close-knit community similar to West Seattle and Point Loma, these comparisons aim to make San Diego feel like home.
Things to Do in San Diego
Visit the San Diego Zoo- Tour the USS Midway Museum
- Explore Balboa Park
- Relax at Coronado Beach
- Dine in Little Italy
- Experience SeaWorld San Diego
- Play golf at Torrey Pines
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to San Diego
Moving from one city to another offers a unique set of challenges and rewards, requiring a deep dive into the living conditions of both locations. This comparison highlights the pros and cons of relocating from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA, providing an honest reflection of the changes you might encounter. Whether it's weather differences, cost of living adjustments, or lifestyle changes, these charts aim to offer a comprehensive overview.
Seattle, WA- Frequent Rain
- Higher Living Costs
- Less Outdoor Dining
- High Traffic Congestion
- Less Year-Round Sunshine
San Diego, CA- Sunny Days
- More Affordable Housing
- Vibrant Outdoor Scene
- Less Traffic
- Year-Round Sunshine
San Diego, CA- Fewer Coffee Choices
- Less Greenery
- Smaller Tech Community
- Fewer Cultural Venues
- Less Culinary Diversity
Seattle, WA- Rich Coffee Culture
- Lush Green Spaces
- Thriving Tech Scene
- Vibrant Artistic Community
- Diverse Culinary Scene
Diving into the nuances of both cities, it's clear that moving from Seattle to San Diego offers a dramatic shift in lifestyle, especially in terms of weather and outdoor activities. San Diego's year-round sunshine and warm climate welcome a vibrant outdoor dining scene with locations like Little Italy and Balboa Park standing out as popular spots for residents to enjoy the sunny days. Conversely, Seattle's acclaimed coffee culture, with establishments like the Original Starbucks and Slate Coffee Roasters, offers a cozy retreat from the frequent rains, fostering a unique indoor café culture that's hard to replicate. Moreover, Seattle's green landscapes, such as the vast Discovery Park, provide a sharp contrast to San Diego's more urbanized and beach-focused environment.
Seattle vs. San Diego Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & San Diego highlights the vibrant food scenes of both cities. Food not only represents a crucial part of local culture but also gives a taste of what living in the area would be like. Here, we aim to help you understand what culinary delights await you in your new city.
| Seattle | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Salmon | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Pho | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Burritos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Pho | Vegan Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Seattle and San Diego both offer dynamic and diverse food scenes catering to all tastes and preferences. In Seattle, neighborhoods like Ballard and Capitol Hill are hotspots for foodies, hosting a variety of restaurants that serve iconic dishes such as salmon and vegan pho. Meanwhile, San Diego's Little Italy and Gaslamp Quarter are must-visit destinations for those craving fish tacos or vegan tacos. Juniper & Ivy and Phil's BBQ are standout spots in San Diego, showcasing the culinary innovation and tradition that define the city's food scene. Whether you're looking for health-conscious dining options, street food, or a vibrant foodie scene, both cities have plenty to offer to satisfy your appetite.
Seattle vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
Finding a great place to eat can turn a new city into a home. This restaurant comparison Seattle to San Diego will guide you to your next favorite dining spots, matching your beloved Seattle restaurants with similar vibes and flavors in San Diego.
| Seattle | San Diego | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Canlis | Addison | Fine dining with exemplary service. |
| The Walrus and the Carpenter | Ironside Fish & Oyster | Similar focus on seafood delicacies. |
| JuneBaby | Coop's West Texas BBQ | Authentic Southern cuisine. |
| Pike Place Chowder | Point Loma Seafoods | Fresh seafood dishes with a local touch. |
| Marination Ma Kai | Lucha Libre Taco Shop | Fun, casual dining with innovative flavors. |
| Renee Erickson's Sea Creatures | Herb & Wood | Creative dishes in a chic atmosphere. |
| Matt's in the Market | Juniper & Ivy | High-quality ingredients in an upscale market setting. |
| Dick's Drive-In | Hodad's | Classic, no-frills burgers and shakes. |
| Serious Pie | Buona Forchetta | Neapolitan pizzas with a similar dedication to quality. |
| Toulouse Petit | Cafe 21 | Farm-to-table approach with a strong commitment to local fare. |
For those who cherish the unparalleled experience of fine dining, Addison in San Diego parallels Seattle's Canlis with its meticulous attention to service and culinary excellence. Likewise, seafood enthusiasts who admired The Walrus and the Carpenter's offerings will find Ironside Fish & Oyster's focus on fresh, maritime cuisine an apt continuation of their gastronomic journey. On the other hand, if you're yearning for that unique blend of atmosphere and innovative dishes you loved at Serious Pie in Seattle, Buona Forchetta in San Diego stands ready to satisfy your cravings with their authentic Neapolitan pizzas. This comparison not only bridges the geographical distance between your old and new favorites but also introduces you to the diverse and vibrant food scene that San Diego has to offer.
Ready to start your move?
Seattle vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts your moving experience, and understanding the differences between two cities is crucial. This comparison focuses on critical aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle to help you make an informed decision. In assessing the housing market variations between Seattle, WA, and San Diego, CA, you'll find insights into which city might better suit your preferences and needs.
| Comparison | Seattle | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Craftsman | Spanish and Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Green Spaces | Beaches, Outdoor Living |
When delving deeper into the housing characteristics of Seattle and San Diego, their distinct offerings become apparent. Seattle, with its mix of modern and Craftsman homes, often highlights green spaces and scenic views in real estate listings, indicating a high value placed on both natural beauty and urban living. Notably, Seattle's emphasis on bikeability, with a score of 8 out of 10, reflects the city's commitment to sustainability and active transportation options. On the other hand, San Diego's real estate often boasts about proximity to beaches and outdoor living spaces, suggesting a lifestyle more focused on year-round outdoor activities, possibly due to its milder climate and Spanish-influenced architecture. The slightly higher rental costs in San Diego could be a trade-off for its favorable weather and beach access, aspects highly sought after by many moving to the area.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Diego, CA
1. Ocean Beach: Known for its laid-back vibe, Ocean Beach features Dog Beach, where your furry friends can play off-leash in the surf and sand.
2. North Park: A neighborhood that embraces pet owners, North Park offers several pet-friendly dining options and the Morley Field Dog Park for off-leash fun.
3. Little Italy: This vibrant neighborhood not only has multiple pet-friendly patios for dining but also hosts the annual Little Italy Doggie Street Festival, celebrating pets and their families.
Seattle vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA, it's crucial to compare the climates of your current and future homes. Understanding the differences in weather can help you prepare for changes in lifestyle, wardrobe, and even housing needs. This comparison will highlight key weather aspects to consider for a smoother transition.
Seattle, WA
San Diego, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
San Diego, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
San Diego, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Seattle, WA
San Diego, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Seattle | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Varies (Moderate to Good) |
| Natural Disasters | Rainstorms, Occasional earthquakes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In Seattle, you might be used to frequent rain and overcast skies, especially outside the summer months, but moving to San Diego introduces a climate full of sunny days and mild humidity year-round. Notably, San Diego enjoys significantly more sunny days than Seattle, which could mean more outdoor activities and a chance to explore a variety of beaches. However, it's also important to note the higher UV index in San Diego, suggesting a greater need for sun protection. Another aspect to consider is the shift in natural disasters, transitioning from Seattle's rainstorms to the wildfires and earthquakes more common in California.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Seattle to San Diego
Understanding the differences in costs and financial landscapes is crucial when moving from one city to another. This comparison aims to highlight key financial aspects that will affect your life moving from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA. It’s essential to grasp how these changes will impact your budget and lifestyle.
| Comparison | Seattle | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $110,781 | $93,042 |
| Cost of Living Index | 121.4 | 132.3 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 13.3 (Max Rate) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.99 | 0.76 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.1 | 7.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Aerospace, Retail | Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Significant |
When relocating from Seattle to San Diego, you'll find that both cities have their unique financial landscapes. Although the average household income in Seattle is higher, San Diego offers a slightly less expensive cost of living. However, it's crucial to note that California has a state income tax, which could affect your take-home pay differently than in Washington state. The industries dominant in each city hint at potential employment opportunities or economic climates you may encounter. Despite some financial and economic differences, both cities experience challenges with homelessness, highlighting a broader issue that both cities are actively addressing. This comparison should provide a foundational understanding as you plan your move.
Seattle vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot highlighting the comparison of the politics between Seattle & San Diego , aiming to give you a sense of the political and religious landscape in the cities you are moving from and to. Knowing how the communities might differ can help set your expectations and ease the transition.
| Seattle | San Diego | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies on social issues | Moderately progressive, with a focus on business and military presence |
| Religion | Less religious, diverse faith communities. | More religious diversity, strong Catholic community. |
Both Seattle and San Diego share a liberal or Democratic political leaning; however, their local politics do show some variation. Seattle is known for its progressive stance on social issues, reflecting its community's values towards inclusivity and diversity. San Diego, while also liberal, tends to have a slightly more moderate approach, likely influenced by its significant military presence and focus on business development. The religious landscapes of the two cities also present contrasts. Seattle is often cited as one of the least religious cities in the country, though it is home to a range of faith communities. San Diego, in comparison, offers a diverse religious scene but with a notably stronger Catholic community, visible in its many parishes and Catholic-based community services.
Seattle vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This guide offers a detailed comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Seattle & San Diego, aimed to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic experience could be like after the big move.
| Comparison | Seattle | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 28 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, but challenging | Yes, with difficulty |
While the average commute time in Seattle is a bit longer than in San Diego, both cities face their share of traffic congestion, though Seattle's is slightly more severe. Public transportation options are more readily available in Seattle, making it somewhat easier to navigate the city without a car, compared to San Diego where public transit scores lower and a car is more of a necessity. This difference can significantly influence your daily life, from planning morning commutes to choosing neighborhoods based on accessibility and transit options.
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